HOUSTON—A couple of years ago, the Galveston Council completed a study titled the Urban Houston Framework. The study evaluated what constitutes an urban center–or an area of live/work/play–using existing city and regional resources including enhanced pedestrian and transportation-related infrastructure/services and other benefits, GlobeSt.com learns.

However, recognizing that one size does not fit all, the study identified the proper characteristics that comprise such centers and the tools required to ensure development practices. The findings of the framework are intended not only to increase housing, economic and transportation opportunities at the local level, but also demonstrate various ways in which sustainability tools can be applied to address planning issues.

Additionally, the initiative aims for the implementation of strategic projects, policies and programs that move beyond the ongoing efforts of the Houston Galveston regional plan for sustainable development. This study is the first of many phases in developing a comprehensive set of regulatory incentives that Houston can use to selectively encourage dense, sustainable neighborhoods, while protecting the character of existing, stable residential communities, GlobeSt.com learns.

Within that framework, numerous real estate developments and open spaces ensure that these goals are regularly met. The Houston District Council of the Urban Land Institute recently recognized the developments and public open spaces that exemplify best practices in design, construction, economic viability, healthy places, marketing and management at its annual Development of Distinction Awards.

In the for-profit category/large, the 2018 award went to Sawyer Yards, by The Deal Company, Western General, Lovett Commercial and j5 Equities. Sawyer Yards is a creative campus spanning 40-plus acres of industrial warehouses near downtown in the historic First Ward neighborhood. Densely occupied by art studios, galleries, restaurants, unique fitness concepts, breweries and a public art plaza, this area has become an important local arts and entertainment destination. According to the national jury, the “artistic village is an interesting concept” with culture that “rubbed off on the developers”. Furthermore, the layout that “unfolds as you go” was appealing and high marks were given for the emphasis on “taking care of an underserved community”.

In the for-profit category/small, the 2018 award went to The Headquarters by Work by Headquarters LLC. The Headquarters is a creative office development located in the East End and was designed to cater to the needs of small- to medium-sized businesses looking for a dynamic and functional work environment with the perks of a corporate campus including on-site food and beverage, reception services and shared amenities such as a community kitchen, lounges, conference rooms and a courtyard. According to the national jury panel, the project has marked differences from other popular co-working space with outstanding “successful programming and design”.

In the urban open space category, the 2018 award went to owner, Upper Kirby Redevelopment Authority for Levy Park. Located in the Upper Kirby District, the 6-acre Levy Park was transformed from a poorly maintained and underutilized park into a community-focused mixed-use environment. The park features native landscaping and botanical experiences, children's play environment, performance pavilion and event lawn, small/large dog parks, free Wi-Fi, and free year-round curated programming. According to the jury panel, Levy Park exhibits a sense of community with its design rooms within the park and diverse daytime programming. Levy Park went on to win the people's choice award with attendees voting live during the event.

Instant Insights /

Projects That Make the Grade and Then Some

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